Location of Troston

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Troston,
Near New Abbey,
Kirkcudbrightshire.

Sleeps 8

Deep in the Dumfries-shire countryside, about half-way (7m) between bustling Dumfries to the north and the Solway Firth's beaches at Southerness to the south, stands an impressive, architect-designed house. Troston sits within its own grounds (barbecue) on a low hill commanding a panoramic view of hills and farmlands, mostly wooded, but with some grazing for sheep, hens and a pet cockerel. The house can be approached either from New Abbey (shop, 2 pubs, famous Sweetheart Abbey) or from the village of Beeswing along the side of Loch Arthur. Both routes take you along single track roads leading from an un-numbered side road lined with wild flowers.

Originally an old stone barn (one stone is dated 1680), the house has been converted and today the 2 ft thick stone walls enclose a warm, very comfortable, well-appointed and beautifully furnished home. The inside of this really splendid house has been built on several levels while the outside has been whitewashed in typical Galloway style.

The sitting room is particularly charming, with wood burner and patio doors to a raised decking area. Here, you can relax with an evening drink and admire the magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. There is also a superb arched window in the sitting room from which you can enjoy the same outlook should the weather change. If you are tempted to eat outdoors there is another terrace also with furniture and reached from the kitchen through French doors. This one catches the morning sun and is perfect for an al fresco breakfast. Background music is provided by the birds with help from a tinkling little stream which flows through this part of the garden. And for a final touch of rural charm you are very likely to see some gentle Highland cattle grazing in the field in front of the house. Inside, the dining kitchen fits in perfectly with the atmosphere of the house and for young and old alike there is a downstairs games/playroom with a pool table.

This area was where Robbie Burns lived and died. His favourite howff 'The Globe' is in Dumfries and you can see there the verses he scratched on the windowpanes. You can also visit the houses in which he wrote some of his best-known works. Burns worked as an excise-man, chasing smugglers of brandy, tobacco and silk from sheltered areas of the then notorious Colvend coast. Today, you can visit these waters, admire the view of the Lake District on the opposite shore and see, too, the place from which many emigrants sailed off to the New World.

Other famous Scots from this area include John Paul Jones, born in the tiny village of Kirkbean and one of the founding fathers of the US Navy, and Annie Laurie who lived near Moniaive. Here, Robert the Bruce began his long struggle for Scottish freedom, just one of many historical incidents which took place in this area. As well as history, however, there are plenty of opportunities for walking, golf, bird-watching, sailing and fishing.

In more recent times this part of Scotland has gained a reputation for the excellence of its mountain biking trails, especially the group of 7 Stanes Trails, dedicated hill and forest tracks suited to all levels of ability. Mabie Forest has the closest trail to Troston (approx. 2 miles away and cycling enthusiasts will be intrigued to hear that there is a Double Black Trail there, 'The Dark Side', if they really want to challenge themselves). Dalbeattie Forest is only a few miles away in the opposite direction. Day trips to the seaside generally appeal to families and here you can choose between the wide, sandy bay at Sandyhills and the rocky inlets at Rockcliffe. For those visitors who wish to venture further afield, head west for Gatehouse of Fleet, the Machars, Whithorn, the Rhinns of Galloway or even Northern Ireland by way of ferry from Stranraer or Cairnryan.,

Heating is by central-heating and electricity (both included), and open fire. Bed-linen is included and towels are available for hire. A refundable householders deposit is required on a bookings. Sorry, no pets. Please note that water is from a private supply.

Accommodation (sleeps 8):

Lower ground-floor:

Utility/playroom with stainless-steel sink, washing-machine, tumble-drier and small snooker table.